Multi-fastener assembly tool

Abstract

A multi-fastener assembly tool (10, 10' and 10") for engaging at least one threaded fastener (14) for securing the fastener to a threaded stud (20) includes a member (26) having a fastener locating and holding mechanism (27) at one end. The fastener locating and holding mechanism is adapted to be squeezed through the fastener to retain it on the member. The member is seated within, and is springbased from, a circumferentially disposed socket (32) sized to engage the fastener. A shaft (42), having a handle (44) at one end, is integrated to the socket to allow a force to be applied to urge the socket against the member once the fastener locating and holding means are aligned with the stud. As the socket is urged against the member, the threaded fastener is seated in the socket and is then pushed off the member to the stud. Once the fasteners is at the stud, a rotational motion is imparted to the handle to thread the fastener onto the stud.

We claim: 
     
       1. A method for releasably engaging at least one washer and a threaded fastener, both having an aperture therethrough and for attaching the fastener and washer onto a threaded stud, comprising the steps of: yieldably squeezing a compressible fastener locating and holding means at one end of a member through the aperture in the washer and fastener so that both are held about the member but out of engagement with a socket circumferentially disposed about the member;   placing the fastener locating and holding means in contact with a threaded stud;   applying a force to the socket to urge the member into the socket to first seat the fastener in the socket and thereafter force the fastener and washer off the member and onto the threaded stud; and   thereafter imparting a torque to the socket to thread the fastener onto the stud.